"Could be the smallest of signs"
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Last season, after 15 games, York City had 22 points. They went on to be relegated into the Nationwide Conference. A salutary lesson for those with too much confidence. But Macclesfield Town are not in the same position that York were in last season. They were struggling with a terrible financial burden and having to let players go - such as Jon Parkin to try to balance the books.
No, Macclesfield Town look in a different position, a strong management team in place, finances believed to be OK and loan players brought in when needed. No, the Silkmen look good for a strong season. But to where?
It is a simple rule of thumb that if a team averages 2 points a game they could be champions. Average 1 point a game, and they could be relegated. Macclesfield Town have 24 points from 15 games which equals an average of 1.6 points per game so far. Add in points lost at Chester, Kidderminster and Bury and the two more that could have been gained against Cambridge and things are looking even better for the club.
For the last three seasons, the club finishing fourth in the old Third Division and just outside the automatic promotion spots finished on 81, 74 and 78 points. Average them up and divide by 46 and a figure of 1.69 points per game has to be beaten for an automatic promotion spot.
Also for the last three seasons, the club finishing eighth and just outside the play-off places finished on 74, 69 and 71 points. Average them up and divide by 46 and a figure of 1.55 points per game has to be beaten for a play-off spot.
Last season, Doncaster Rovers and Hull City were the the best teams in the League and pulled away to battle for top spot. This season, it doesn't look like that will happen. If so, a tight promotion race should mean lower than average figures will get you promoted or in the play-offs. Maybe it's too early to start getting excited, but keep an eye on those average figures.